Hospitality challenges 'not allowing people to flourish'

LVA speaks to Manx Radio after closed-doors meeting

A 'call to arms' meeting of the hospitality sector has been described as one of the biggest of its kind on the Island.

More than 100 people attended the closed doors meeting last week, with 74 Manx businesses represented.

A statement from the Licensed Victuallers Association released after the private meeting said the aim was to discuss the challenges faced by the hospitality industry.

They say these include pressures from wage increases, recruitment issues, regulatory and training burdens and reduced footfall.

Additionally, there have been calls for an overhaul of VAT.

Andy Saunders from the LVA has been talking to Beth Espey:

Carl Joughin is the landlord of the Mitre Hotel in Ramsey.

He's been telling Amy Griffiths what things have been like for his business:

In response, a Government spokesperson says: 'The Isle of Man Government understands that parts of the hospitality sector are experiencing a challenging period.

'We thank members of the Licenced Victuallers Association for bringing forward concerns, and the Treasury Minister and Enterprise Minister would welcome the opportunity to meet with representatives from the sector to ensure there is an open dialogue and a clear understanding, and importantly listen to concerns.

'Government is committed to supporting the hospitality sector, recognising the important contribution it makes to our wider economy. However, any solutions considered need to be appropriate and take account of other demands on the public finances and pressures being felt across our community as a whole.'